or, The art of vaulting reduced to a method, comprised under certaine rules. illustrated by examples, and now primarily set forth by Will Stokes. Printed for Richard Davies in Oxford 1652. Kind of a Karma Sutra for jumping over horses, there are some choice engravings in the book by George Glover who was a prolific illustrator of the time.
The First Figure. A fellow in tightly cut doublet, breeches and long boots holds the horse’s head whilst the chap in three-quarter armour works out how he’s going to mount and keep his dignity
Over the Head of the Horse. The vaulter, now stripped to shirt and breeches defies gravity and still has time to wave at the artist. Nice shoes and leg ties.
The Hercules Leave. This must have been tricky before yoga was invented. I hope he can get his hands out of the way or he’s heading for a nasty fall! That’s a quality shirt he’s wearing, judging from the gathers in the body.
The Mistress Command. The horse doesn’t look impressed, and the lady seems a tad concerned too. Looks to me like he’s going to kick her in the teeth and get caught on his rapier in one sweeping comedy move. Smart four or six-tabbed doublet, breeches to match, embroidered baldric and long boots pulled up to the thigh. M’lady in a (possibly) embroidered petticoat and dressed hair with a lace edged kerchief.
The 1640s Picturebook 